Mango Panna Cotta

The Mango Panna Cotta is a tropical twist on an Italian classic combining the silky texture of traditional panna cotta with a bright mango coulis and zesty lime. This dessert is made for warm weather gatherings, brunch tables, or simply when you’re craving something refreshingly sweet.

What makes this dish shine is its beautiful layering of smooth cream infused with mango, topped off with extra coulis, juicy mango cubes, mint leaves, and a touch of desiccated coconut. It’s the kind of dessert that looks stunning in a glass and tastes like summer in every spoonful. Whether you’re serving it at a party or treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to impress.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Mango Coulis:

• 400g (0.9 lbs) fresh or frozen mango

• Juice of 1 small lime

• 30g (2 1/2 tbsp) caster sugar

For the Panna Cotta:

• 250ml (1 cup) full cream milk (or dairy-free milk)

• 250ml (1 cup) heavy/thickened cream (or dairy-free cream)

• 40g (3 tbsp) caster sugar

• 180ml (3/4 cup) mango coulis (reserve rest for topping)

• 1/2 tsp vanilla paste (optional)

• 7g (2 tsp) gelatin powder

• 2 tbsp cold water (to dissolve gelatin)

• Zest of 1 lime

Toppings (optional):

• Remaining mango coulis

• Fresh mango cubes

• Fresh mint leaves

• Desiccated coconut

Directions:

To make the Mango Coulis:

1. Combine mango, lime juice, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring often.

3. Blend until smooth and let cool. Store refrigerated if making ahead.

To make the Panna Cotta:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve gelatin powder in cold water and let sit.

2. In a medium pot, combine milk, cream, sugar, mango coulis, and vanilla.

3. Heat over low-medium heat until it begins to simmer. Do not boil.

4. Remove from heat and stir in the dissolved gelatin until fully melted.

5. Add lime zest and whisk to combine.

6. Pour into serving glasses or molds.

7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.

To Serve:

1. Spoon remaining mango coulis on top of set panna cotta.

2. Garnish with mango cubes, mint leaves, and a sprinkle of coconut.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Kcal: 395 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Magic of Mango Panna Cotta: A Tropical Twist on an Italian Classic

Few desserts manage to strike the perfect balance between elegance and simplicity the way panna cotta does. A staple of Italian cuisine, panna cotta literally translates to “cooked cream” and is loved worldwide for its silky texture and versatility. Add the lush, golden sweetness of mangoes to the mix, and you get something even more enchanting: Mango Panna Cotta a tropical, creamy delight that’s as refreshing as it is sophisticated.

A Brief History of Panna Cotta

Panna cotta’s origins trace back to Northern Italy, particularly the Piedmont region. Historically, it was made by simmering cream with fish bones, which acted as a natural gelatin. Over time, this evolved with culinary advancements, and gelatin became the setting agent of choice. Traditionally, it’s served with a simple caramel or berry sauce, but in recent years, panna cotta has become a canvas for countless creative interpretations including this fruity version inspired by the tropics.

Mango, native to South Asia and a key player in tropical cuisine, brings a vibrant color, exotic aroma, and natural sweetness that perfectly complements the creaminess of the dessert. Together, they form a luxurious yet approachable treat that transcends cultural borders.

The Appeal of Mango Panna Cotta

What makes Mango Panna Cotta so universally loved? It’s a combination of its texture, flavor profile, and visual appeal.

• Texture: A well-made panna cotta should have a soft, jiggly texture that melts on the tongue. The richness of cream balanced with the lightness of milk (or their dairy-free counterparts) creates a smooth mouthfeel that’s indulgent yet not overly heavy.

• Flavor: Mangoes bring a bright, fruity note to the dish that lifts the richness of the base. The addition of lime zest adds a gentle zing, enhancing the mango’s natural tang without overpowering it. Subtle hints of vanilla or coconut can also be layered in to add depth.

• Visual Impact: When layered in a clear glass or demolded onto a plate, Mango Panna Cotta is a stunner. Its sunny yellow hue paired with garnishes like fresh mango cubes, mint leaves, or coconut flakes makes it a show-stopper at any table.

Why It’s the Perfect Summer Dessert

Mango Panna Cotta is particularly suited for warm weather. Served cold, it’s a refreshing treat that doesn’t require turning on the oven ideal for hot summer days. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead dessert, giving hosts and home cooks a break from last-minute kitchen stress.

Because it needs to be chilled to set, you can prepare it the night before a dinner party or summer barbecue and simply top it with your favorite garnishes before serving.

Serving Suggestions & Garnish Ideas

Presentation plays a big role in how we experience food. Here are some creative ways to elevate Mango Panna Cotta visually and flavor-wise:

• Glass Jars or Tumblers: Serve individual portions in small glass jars or tumblers for a modern, elegant look. The transparency of the container allows the golden mango hue to shine.

• Silicone Molds: For a more traditional touch, panna cotta can be set in molds and then unmolded onto a plate for serving. The dome shape creates a professional look with little effort.

• Toppings:

  • Mango Coulis: A drizzle of mango coulis on top creates a layered effect and enhances the fruity flavor.

  • Fresh Mango Cubes: These add a pleasant bite and reinforce the star ingredient.

  • Mint Leaves: A small sprig adds contrast and a hint of freshness.

  • Desiccated Coconut or Toasted Coconut Flakes: Adds a crunchy texture and tropical flair.

  • Edible Flowers: For a special occasion or event, edible flowers like pansies or violets can add a touch of whimsy and elegance.

Variations to Try

While the classic Mango Panna Cotta is a delight on its own, there are plenty of ways to tweak the recipe to suit different palates or dietary needs:

• Dairy-Free/Vegan Version: Swap out the dairy cream and milk for coconut milk and coconut cream for a rich, tropical twist. Use agar-agar instead of gelatin to make it suitable for vegans.

• Spiced Mango Panna Cotta: Add a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon to the cream mixture for a warm, spiced note that pairs beautifully with mango.

• Layered Panna Cotta: Alternate layers of mango panna cotta with plain vanilla panna cotta in the same glass for an eye-catching, flavor-diverse dessert.

• Mango-Chili Panna Cotta: Add a tiny hint of chili powder or cayenne to the mango coulis for a subtle heat that contrasts nicely with the sweet creaminess.

Pairing Recommendations

Wondering what to serve alongside or after this panna cotta? Consider these complementary options:

• Wine Pairing: A glass of Moscato d’Asti or a late harvest Riesling offers a sweet counterpoint to the dessert’s creaminess and mango notes.

• Coffee or Tea: A lightly brewed jasmine tea or a floral earl grey will complement the tropical flavors without overwhelming them.

• Savory Pairing: If you’re planning a full menu, Mango Panna Cotta makes a lovely ending to a meal that features seafood, grilled chicken, or light summer salads.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Panna cotta is one of the best desserts for advance prep. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to two days, making it a go-to for entertainers. Here are a few tips:

• Set in Covered Containers: This keeps them from absorbing fridge odors.

• Add Toppings Just Before Serving: This prevents the garnishes from becoming soggy or losing their vibrant appearance.

• Don’t Freeze: While the mango coulis can be frozen, panna cotta itself does not freeze well due to the gelatin structure breaking down during thawing.

A Dessert for Every Occasion

Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, a festive summer cookout, or just want to indulge your sweet tooth on a Tuesday night, Mango Panna Cotta fits the bill. Its lightness makes it suitable even after a heavy meal, and its aesthetic appeal makes it Instagram-worthy with zero filters.

It’s also a fantastic option for those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen. Once you’ve mastered the basic method, the flavor combinations and presentation options are virtually endless.

Conclusion

Mango Panna Cotta is more than just a dessert it’s a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and freshness. Combining the luxurious silkiness of an Italian classic with the brightness of tropical fruit, this recipe bridges continents and culinary traditions.

Perfectly suited for summer, yet elegant enough for special occasions, it’s a dessert that impresses without stress. With its minimal ingredients, customizable options, and stunning presentation, Mango Panna Cotta deserves a permanent spot in every dessert lover’s repertoire.

Add it to your next gathering, impress your dinner guests, or simply savor it in solitude you’ll be glad you did.